Mac and Cheese is a classic staple here in our home. I will make some type of homemade mac & cheese every month. To keep things interesting, I’m always changing up the recipe, but I admit…when it comes to comfort food, the classic, cheesy…mac and cheese is best!
Today’s guest post recipe is courtesy of the generous folks over at Pasta Fits. If you’re looking for additional pasta recipes, you’ll want to check out their website for more.
Chicken, Broccoli & Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
4 oz. elbow macaroni
2 cups small broccoli florets
2 Tbsp. butter
6 Tbsp. flour
2 cups skim milk
4 oz. grated sharp cheddar cheese
8 oz. cooked chicken (leftover), small dice
½ cup breadcrumbs
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and reserve.
Heat a small pan of salted water. Cook the broccoli until crisp tender (about 2 minutes). Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Chop into ½” pieces. Reserve.
Heat a large saucepan over medium low heat. Add butter and, whisking constantly, stir in the flour taking care the flour doesn’t brown. Continue to cook for 2 minutes.
Whisk in the milk. It will thicken as it gets hot. Whisk constantly; any lumps will smooth out. Cook for 5 – 7 minutes. Mixture will bubble and thicken. When it no longer changes in consistency, it’s done.
Stir in cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in pasta, broccoli and chicken. Spread into a 9” x 9” pan. Sprinkle with the breadcrumbs and press them into the surface. Cool completely (at least 2 hours). Cut into 6 squares.
I love a good mac & cheese. I know my niece & nephews won’t eat this because of the broccoli, but that would just leave more for me, lol!
This looks good. I oftentimes will add vegetables like broccoli to my mac and cheese. It makes it an all in one meal. I like the hearty taste, and the flavor combo of it. It is also excellent using cauliflower although it isnt as colorful!
Looking good love to try this love mac and cheese
This looks so yummy and I know my kids would love it! I think I’m going to have to try it for lunch!
This looks really easy to make! I love the portion size, too. Looks so delicious!
This recipe sounds delicious. The only change I might make is to brown it under the broiler to get the top crispy.
I love to make real Mac& Cheese. I do it all of the time – now ‘add broccoli’ – what could be simpler and more yummy!
I’m not a fan of most gluten-free pastas that I need to sub, since many use corn and just don’t taste right to me, but in a recipe like this one with the broccoli and cheese, I bet it tastes great. Subbing gluten-free flour and bread is easy too. Great way to use any leftover meat.
This recipe certainly caught my eye. My grandkids love mac and cheese and I like the addition of the broccoli to make it a bit more healthy for them. Looks delish.